General information about Maastricht

The following texts can be easily copied and pasted for your own use. Prefer offline access? You can also download the PDF version containing all texts in one document for easy reference and sharing.

Download the full PDF file here

Location and History

Maastricht is located in the heart of Europe, with Germany and Belgium just a few kilometers away. A lively Romanesque city with an international character and edgy touch, Maastricht is easy to love. The Romans settled here to trade. So did the European powers that fought over the city through the centuries. And so did the heads of government who gave birth to the European Union in Maastricht. Maastricht is much more than a tourist destination with impressive architecture, rich culture and a distinctive Burgundian spirit. It is a city of innovation and opportunity, offering a high quality of life.

Discover the city

Maastricht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and has several places of interest to explore. Stroll past monumental houses and churches, city walls, charming alleys, and intimate squares and enjoy a drink at one of the many outdoor cafés. In addition to all of the charming, romantic spots, you can stay in boutique design hotels, shop at high-end stores, and eat at critically acclaimed restaurants. And with everything within a short walking distance, you’ll quickly feel at home.

Discover more about what makes Maastricht unique

Maastricht City Centre By Maastricht Convention Bureau

City highlights

Maastricht is a compact city, which is great for conference attendees. No more worries about long rides from the hotel to the conference venue. In fact, all of the city’s highlights are within walking distance of each other. Be sure to take a walk through a living history book; the city center of Maastricht has been declared a national heritage site. Most streets are pedestrian zones making for a safer, more relaxed walk. Less commuting to venues means more time to discover Maastricht, meet up with colleagues and enjoy social events in the evening. From the historic to underground, learn about the most popular places of interest.

Maastricht Kruisheren Hotel Oostwegel Monument Centrum Overnachten Sarahleonora

Maastricht Beaumont Harrys Eten Drinken Wyck Sarahleonora 3

Gastronomy

Connections are made over good food and great drinks, and Maastricht just happens to offer an abundance of culinary treats. Many restaurants are housed in unique historic buildings, adding charm to the high epicurean standards. You’ll find a wide range of cuisines here, from French and Italian to Moroccan and Greek, and from Michelin-star experiences to street food, the city is well-known as a paradise for foodies.

Check out the best spots for food & drinks

Maastricht, a sustainable city

In Maastricht, people work together to create a healthy, sustainable city with a high quality of life. The city aims to become climate neutral by 2030, focusing on reduced energy use and sustainable mobility. Because everything is close by, many people walk or cycle, resulting in less traffic, lower emissions and a calmer environment. At the same time, Maastricht invests in green spaces, parks and riverside routes that support relaxation, movement and connection. In this way, the city shows how a compact urban environment can contribute to a liveable future for everyone.